Interviews: The Chinaskis

On this new occasion, we had the opportunity to interview the Rock band The Chinaskis from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name, you plan it or come out just like that? 

Henry Chinaski is the fictional alter ego of writer Charles Bukowski, one of my favorite authors. Known for his hard-drinking, womanizing ways, Chinaski works various low-paying jobs and navigates a life filled with poverty and volatile relationships. Despite his rough exterior, he has a deep love for literature and classical music, reflecting Bukowski’s own gritty, raw, and darkly humorous style – which I try to carry into the music.

2. Why did you want to play this genre? 

Music is a huge part of my life. From the moment I wake up to when I’m working, driving, or at the gym, I’m always listening to something. I’m constantly on the lookout for new sounds that inspire me or give me a fresh perspective on songwriting. Some of the artists who have had the biggest impact on me include R.E.M., The Replacements, Bob Mould, Neil Young, CSNY, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, St. Vincent, Biffy Clyro, The Smiths, Bob Dylan, Rocket from the Crypt, and Joni Mitchell. The list goes on!

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed? 

In the previous, Scottish incarnation of the band (2010-2016) we were all friends and drinking buddies, so the music came naturally. The U.S. version of the band (2023-) came together through the Dallas music scene and mutual pals.

4. Who or what inspires you to write songs? 

Alcohol, politics, heartbreak, anger… So many people have influenced me – and not just musicians. Bill Hicks was and continues to be a touchstone for me: an incredible, visionary comedian who pointed out how absurd the world is. Writers like Charles Bukowski – whose alter-ego Henry Chinaski inspired the name of the band – George Orwell and Hunter S. Thompson are big influences, too.

5. Where was your last gig? 

We did a Christmas show last year at Double Wide in Dallas, TX 

6. Where would you like to perform? 

I’d love to play the Barrowlands in Glasgow, it’s an iconic venue. Also the Troubadour or the Roxy in LA. 

7. Whom would you like to perform with? 

Wow, that’s a tough one. The members of REM, Dave Grohl, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden – all on stage at once. 9. Whom not?  I’ll play with anyone! 

8. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

Being a frontman can be scary for sure, and stage fright is perfectly natural. I’ve definitely experienced it at points, and my advice is to plan for it, think through what the actual worst thing that can happen is (it’s never as bad as it feels), and focus on the first song and the first song only. Once you get those awkward moments out of the way you really start to enjoy yourself up there – anxiety will always fade if you sit in it and let it pass. 

9. What bands have inspired you the most? 

Music is a huge part of my life. From the moment I wake up to when I’m working, driving, or at the gym, I’m always listening to something. I’m constantly on the lookout for new sounds that inspire me or give me a fresh perspective on songwriting. Some of the artists who have had the biggest impact on me include R.E.M., The Replacements, Bob Mould, Neil Young, CSNY, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, St. Vincent, Biffy Clyro, The Smiths, Bob Dylan, Rocket from the Crypt, and Joni Mitchell. The list goes on!

10. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

To record a cover of a Shakin’ Stevens song for their wedding first waltz (it was “She Drives Me Crazy”)

11. What do you think of your fans? 

Our fans are real music fans, we love them and are so appreciative of the support we get from our listeners.

12. What do you think of our site? 

You have a really great spread of bands and genres, I love how international it all is. I think you should aim for a “Party Cannon” logo though.

13. Something to add?

For me the goal has always been to play songs that challenge me and make the hairs on the back of my neck stick up – I’ve always been my primary audience for the songs, rather than trying to adapt to any trends or fashions. And sharing these songs with others – whether digitally or live – and seeing them resonate with people is absolutely why I do this, it’s an incredible feeling.